Easy Ways to Detect Air Leaks
Doing everything you can to keep your home’s energy efficiency levels high is an easy decision. When you make an effort to ensure your HVAC systems aren’t working harder than they have to, you’re not just saving energy, you’re saving money. Air leaks around your home are one of many ways your home may be losing efficiency.
The most frequent leaks are from drafts that come through your windows or doors. These air leaks are generally easy to spot, but air leakage can also come from less obvious spaces in your home. Take advantage of the suggestions below to do your own energy assessment.
Inside your home
First, you’ll want to check your windows and doors. If they shake easily or you can see light coming in between the door and the frame, they’re leaking and likely wasting energy and money, as well. Seal them with caulk or weather-stripping to take care of the leak.
Next, search your home for cracks and gaps in the following areas:
- Electrical outlets and light switches
- Electrical and gas service entrances
- Baseboards
- Attic doors or hatches
- Fireplaces
- Wall and window air conditioning units
- Cable and phone lines
- Vents and fans
If you find air leaks around your home, check out the Department of Energy’s tips for sealing leaks.
Outside your house
- Check exterior corners, making sure the edges match up perfectly and there are no gaps
- Check for cracks or holes around outdoor water faucets
- Make sure siding is properly aligned next to windows and chimneys
- Check for gaps where siding or bricks meet your foundation
An at-home energy assessment can be effective for a number of air leaks in your home, but for greater energy savings, call in a professional. Experts can conduct a comprehensive energy assessment, which includes a blower door test that can help uncover major sources of energy loss in your home, and share information on how best to fix them for improved energy efficiency. Contact Orangutan Home Services in Tempe for a professional energy assessment at 602-906-0111.